82.8 F
Houston
Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Home Blog Page 91

Diddy case: Attorney says 120 accusers allege sexual misconduct against Sean Combs

Que Onda Editorial
-
0
Diddy case: Attorney says 120 accusers allege sexual misconduct against Sean Combs

HOUSTON — An attorney said Tuesday he is representing 120 accusers who have come forward with sexual misconduct allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs, the hip-hop mogul who is awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

Houston attorney Tony Buzbee said he expects lawsuits to be filed within the next month. Buzbee described the victims as 60 males and 60 females, and that 25 were minors at the time of the alleged misconduct.

Following the news conference in Texas, an attorney for Combs said the performer “cannot address every meritless allegation in what has become a reckless media circus.”

“That said, Mr. Combs emphatically and categorically denies as false and defamatory any claim that he sexually abused anyone, including minors,” attorney Erica Wolff said in a statement. “He looks forward to proving his innocence and vindicating himself in court if and when claims are filed and served, where the truth will be established based on evidence, not speculation.”

SEE ALSO: Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs indictment explained: Alleged ‘Freak-offs,’ drugs and prostitution

symbol

Combs, 54, has been locked up at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since pleading not guilty Sept. 17 to federal charges that he used his “power and prestige” to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers in events dubbed “Freak Offs.”

Buzbee has also represented women who accused NFL quarterback Deshaun Watson of sexual assault.

Other alleged victims have already filed lawsuits against Combs that include allegations of sexual assault.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. His attorney said he is innocent and will fight to clear his name.

Attorney Erica Wolf said in a statement, “As Mr. Combs’ legal team has emphasized, he cannot address every meritless allegation in what has become a reckless media circus. That said, Mr. Combs emphatically and categorically denies as false and defamatory any claim that he sexually abused anyone, including minors. He looks forward to proving his innocence and vindicating himself in court if and when claims are filed and served, where the truth will be established based on evidence, not speculation.”

Combs is appealing a federal judge’s decision to keep him in jail while he awaits trial.

Combs is one of the best-known music executives, producers and performers across hip-hop, having won three Grammys and worked with artists such as Notorious B.I.G., Mary J. Blige, Usher, Lil Kim, Faith Evans and 112. He founded Bad Boy Records in 1993, the influential fashion line Sean John, a vodka brand and the Revolt TV network. He sold off his stake in the latter company in June of this year.

ABC News contributed to this report.

Claudia Sheinbaum toma protesta como la primera presidenta de México

Alejandro G
-
0
Claudia Sheinbaum toma protesta como la primera presidenta de México

Claudia Sheinbaum tomó protesta este martes como la primera presidenta de México, ante gritos y vítores de apoyo por parte de sus simpatizantes y junto al ahora expresidente, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

La investidura se realizó en el Palacio Legislativo de San Lázaro, donde la sesión comenzó alrededor de las 09:00 horas y Sheinbaum recibió la banda presidencial de la mano de AMLO, quien la pasó a la presidenta de la Mesa Directiva de la Cámara de Diputados, Ifigenia Martínez y esta la cedió a la presidenta.

Antes de recibir la banda, la nueva mandataria rindió protesta, convirtiéndose en la primera mujer que llega al cargo en los 200 años de la nación, además de ser la presidenta número 66 en la historia de México.

Esta ceremonia contó con la presencia de decenas de presidentes, vicepresidentes y representantes de países alrededor del mundo, nombres que Sheinbaum pronunció al comienzo de su discurso que se extendió por cerca de 50 minutos.

Además de agradecer a la administración de López Obrador, a quien describió como el presidente “más querido” e “importante” de la historia moderna de México, también subrayó la llegada de las mujeres al poder.

“No llego sola, llegamos todas”, declaró Sheinbaum mientras los asistentes gritaban “¡presidenta, presidenta!”, en el lugar.

Aunado a ello, la presidenta señaló algunos de los compromisos de su gobierno, cuyo periodo abarcará del 2024 al 2030, además de “continuar” con los esfuerzos de AMLO en la llamada cuarta transformación del país.

Entre ellos, Claudia adelantó que buscará sostener una relación de cooperación con Estados Unidos, Canadá, los países de Latinoamérica y el Caribe, así como el resto de aliados en el resto del mundo. 

Respecto al transporte, Sheinbaum mencionó el plan de las ocho líneas de trenes de pasajeros, uno de los proyectos más ambiciosos que tendrá su gobierno, pues, conectará el AIFA con Pachuca, la CDMX con Querétaro, León y Aguascalientes; CDMX con Querétaro y Guadalajara; Tepic con Mazatlán y Nogales; CDMX con San Luis Potosí, Monterrey y Nuevo Laredo y la CDMX con Puebla y Veracruz.

Por otro lado, se comprometió a no subir el precio de la gasolina y el resto de combustibles y aumentar el salario mínimo en “2.5 canastas básicas”. 

Luego de la toma de protesta, Sheinbaum convocó a sus simpatizantes a un evento masivo que se realizará a las 16:00 horas en el Zócalo de la Ciudad de México, en el que será acompañada por el resto de representantes de Morena.

What to know ahead of tonight’s vice presidential debate as Vance, Walz go head-to-head

ABC13 Houston
-
0
What to know ahead of tonight’s vice presidential debate as Vance, Walz go head-to-head

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Ohio Sen. JD Vance are set to hold their only scheduled vice-presidential debate on Tuesday.

The pair will face off just a few weeks after former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris sparred at the ABC News presidential debate.

The vice-presidential debate is a chance for both Walz and Vance to show their political chops, tout their running mates’ plans for the nation and introduce themselves to Americans after months spent crisscrossing the country campaigning.

Here’s what to know about the debate and how to tune in.

How to watch the debate

The vice presidential debate hosted by CBS News is set for 9 p.m. ET Tuesday, Oct. 1 in New York City.

The 90-minute debate will air on CBS and be simulcast on the ABC network and stream on ABC News Live.

ABC pre-debate coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET; post-debate ABC News coverage will go on until 11 p.m. ET.

ABC News Live, ABC News’ 24/7 streaming news channel, will provide full coverage beginning at 7 p.m. ET and run through 12 a.m. ET.

Who is moderating the VP debate?

The debate will be moderated by “CBS Evening News” anchor and managing editor Norah O’Donnell and “Face the Nation” moderator and CBS News chief foreign affairs correspondent Margaret Brennan.

VP debate rules

CBS News announced the debate rules on Friday.

The Walz-Vance debate, like the Harris-Trump debate, will be in a studio without an audience but unlike that debate, the candidates’ mics will not be routinely muted when it’s not their turn to speak — but the moderators will retain the ability to do so.

How are the candidates preparing?

To prepare for the debate, Vance has turned to Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer to help him in debate rehearsals by playing Walz, sources told ABC News. The Ohio senator has also had sessions with his team and Jason Miller, a senior advisor on Trump’s campaign.

Also, Vance has spent the last month reviewing debate plans, strategies and potential questions, according to a source familiar with the senator’s debate preparations.

Walz has also held some mock debates with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acting as a Vance stand-in, sources told ABC News. Walz has also held policy sessions with his own longtime aides, Biden White House alumni and members of the Harris-Walz campaign team.

Walz has also been practicing on the road as he campaigns, sources said.

Cómo los donantes hispanos de Houston tienen la clave para salvar vidas

Que Onda Editorial
-
0

En una ciudad tan diversa como Houston, la fortaleza de nuestra comunidad radica en nuestras diferencias. Cuando se trata de donaciones de sangre, esa diversidad no solo es motivo de orgullo, sino que también es vital para salvar vidas. Los donantes hispanos juegan un papel crucial en mantener un suministro de sangre constante y confiable, y en apoyar avances médicos en la comunidad. Sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, los donantes hispanos siguen estando subrepresentados entre los donantes. Es hora de cambiar eso.

Los tipos de sangre como el O positivo son comunes entre los hispanos. Estos tipos también están entre los más demandados en los hospitales, especialmente durante emergencias. Una base de donantes más diversa aumenta las posibilidades de encontrar coincidencias compatibles para pacientes en necesidad urgente, ya sea alguien que se somete a una cirugía, que recibe atención de emergencia después de un accidente o que lucha contra el cáncer.

Una paciente que ha visto de primera mano el impacto que las donaciones de sangre pueden tener es Betzy Martínez, originaria de Houston y estudiante de la Universidad de Vanderbilt. “No sabes cuánto lo aprecio y cuántas más personas, más pacientes, les gustaría agradecer personalmente su donación de sangre”, dijo Betzy.

Diagnosticada con cáncer a los 18 años, Betzy dependió de transfusiones de sangre durante su tratamiento y eventualmente quedó libre de cáncer. Ahora, enfrentando una recaída, Betzy está nuevamente bajo tratamiento. Como dice Betzy, “Los donantes de sangre son los héroes silenciosos que dan a pacientes como yo la oportunidad de seguir luchando”.

Durante casi 50 años, el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center ha estado en el corazón del sistema de salud de Houston, proporcionando productos sanguíneos que salvan vidas a más de 170 hospitales e instalaciones de salud. Pero su papel ha evolucionado con los años. Hoy en día, la organización hace mucho más que recolectar sangre. Además de la recolección de sangre, el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center ahora desempeña un papel crucial en la investigación médica, ayudando a encontrar curas para enfermedades como el cáncer y el Alzheimer, y proporcionando exámenes de salud para condiciones como el rasgo de células falciformes entre los afroamericanos. Y esto es solo el comienzo; emocionantes desarrollos están en el horizonte.

“Nuestra fortaleza como comunidad está arraigada en su diversidad, y esa diversidad debe reflejarse en el suministro de sangre que la respalda”, dijo Nikhil Nayak, presidente y director ejecutivo del Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. “La necesidad de donantes hispanos nunca ha sido mayor, y al dar un paso adelante, puedes impactar directamente la vida de quienes lo necesitan. Cada donación podría salvar una vida aquí mismo en Houston o ayudar a encontrar una cura para una enfermedad”.

La población hispana representa más del 45% del área metropolitana de Houston, sin embargo, muchos pueden no darse cuenta de cuán urgentemente se necesitan sus donaciones de sangre. Actualmente, solo alrededor del 20% de las donaciones recolectadas por el Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center provienen de donantes hispanos. Donar sangre es rápido, seguro y fácil. Una sola donación puede salvar hasta tres vidas, y esas vidas podrían ser las de tus abuelos, tíos, primos o incluso tus padres.

Dependemos de personas como tú para ayudar a satisfacer la creciente demanda de sangre en la región. A medida que Houston sigue creciendo, también lo hace la necesidad de productos sanguíneos que salvan vidas, y tu contribución es fundamental.

“Si te preguntas o tienes dudas sobre donar sangre, la verdad es que si lo hicieras, estaríamos eternamente agradecidos por ello”, dijo Betzy. “Mucha gente necesita sangre todos los días, y puedes cambiar una vida, créelo o no”.

¿Listo para salvar vidas? Visita giveblood.org/espanol para obtener más información y programar tu cita.
Al donar sangre, no solo apoyas una causa, estás salvando la vida de alguien. ¿Interesado en organizar
una campaña de donación de sangre en tu iglesia o escuela? Visita giveblood.org/hostablooddrive.

This post was sponsored by Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center.

October is about to begin, what does this mean for the end to hurricane season for southeast Texas?

ABC13 Houston
-
0
October is about to begin, what does this mean for the end to hurricane season for southeast Texas?

The tropics remain quite active, with several named systems currently in the Atlantic and another area to monitor in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. This is all occurring as La Niña begins to emerge in the Pacific. So, what does this mean for the rest of the hurricane season?

With how active the Atlantic Basin currently is, there are signs that this year’s hurricane season could remain active in October and potentially extend into November as well. While this doesn’t necessarily correlate to Gulf activity or a Texas landfall, we can’t rule out both scenarios. As of Sept. 30, a wave over the western Caribbean has a medium chance of forming over the next seven days. The region where this next system could develop is just where Hurricane Helene formed about a week ago.

While Helene was able to stir up colder water from far below the ocean surface, unfortunately, those waters started to warm again. However, warm water temperatures aren’t the only factor influencing whether storms develop and strengthen. Typically, other weather systems will help keep wind shear over the Gulf of Mexico at this time of year, which helps limit tropical activity. ABC13 Meteorologist Elyse Smith spoke to Dr. Phil Klotzbach with Colorado State University. Klotzbach referenced an example from 2020, which involved hurricanes Laura and Marco.

“Marco formed later but actually got into the Gulf earlier. Both traveled over a pretty similar part of the Gulf of Mexico with super hot water. Marco got shredded by sheer and didn’t even make it to Louisiana before it died,” Klotzbach said.

While there is a window of opportunity in the western Caribbean and the Bay of Campeche for a tropical system to form, wind shear would make it difficult, but not impossible, for a storm to roll into the Gulf. A wide area of shear should move into the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend and early next week, putting a plug on the tropics and keeping a storm away from the Texas coast.

This season has already been active for the Gulf of Mexico. While no two hurricane seasons are exactly alike, many end up having some similarities because of phenomena like El Niño or La Niña.

One of the analog years that forecasters used to predict the 2024 season was 2005, a record year for the total number of storms in the Atlantic and the impacts those storms brought to the U.S. For the Gulf specifically, the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season had 11 storms tracked through the Gulf of Mexico. Eight of those made landfall by the end of August, the last being Hurricane Katrina. Then, there was a lull before another wave of activity brought Rita, Stan, and Wilma to the Gulf from late September through late October.

Now, let’s compare that to this year. So far, there have been six named storms in the Gulf. Four happened within the first three months of the season, with hurricanes Francine and Helene in September.

One thing to consider this year is the emerging La Niña. There are already signs of cooler-than-normal temperatures in the Pacific, signaling that a La Niña could take over soon. That’s something Klotzbach says to take note of.

“This year, because we likely will have a La Niña and the Atlantic being so hot, this year will probably remain longer, so potentially extending the hurricane season more until late October or early November,” Klotzbach said.

Port Houston workers picketing for better wages, protections against automation in historic strike

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Port Houston workers picketing for better wages, protections against automation in historic strike

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Dockworkers walked off the job Tuesday morning at Port Houston, just one of the several ports along the Gulf and East coasts where workers are picketing, leading to a historic strike.

ABC13 was in Seabrook Tuesday, where union workers set up early with tents and cases of water in anticipation of more people showing up outside Bayport Container Terminal.

The strike stems from a deadlock that’s been happening for months over contract negotiations.

READ MORE: Dockworkers at Eastern and Gulf ports go on strike, a standoff risking new shortages

The International Longshoremen’s Association, which is the largest union for dockworkers, is demanding higher pay and protections against automated technology.

They weren’t satisfied with the offer from the United States Maritime Alliance, which represents port operators and shipping companies.

It’s unclear how this strike will last, but New York Gov. Kathy Hochul noted in a statement Tuesday that it was the first large-scale eastern dockworker strike in 47 years at ports from Maine to Texas, and that included the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

If the strike continues for weeks or months, the businesses that will experience the biggest impact are those who rely on shipping overseas.

“All of the conversation has been about imports and Christmas and retailers, the ports covered by the ILA, the East Coast and the Gulf Coast, actually handle almost 70% of container exports from the United States,” said Ed Emmett with Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy.

ABC13 spoke to Ben Baxley, COO for Green Mile Logistics, who said he’s not choosing a side, but rather pushing for unity.

“You have 36 ports that are basically at a standstill right now, so when we rely on overseas products throughout our daily lives we will be impacted in a great way, depending on how long this continues,” Baxley explained. “However, inside the U.S., we have a huge opportunity to come together. So our message to everybody is just to unite, try to be part of the solution.”

Baxley told ABC13’s Rosie Nguyen they remain neutral, but want it to be fair.

“These guys work their butts off on a daily basis, our port truckers, God bless their souls, they need somebody to come in and help. However, that’s going to come in the form of both parties being amicable and stand up for what’s right and come together and find a solution to pay them fair wages and also make sure that all of our customers throughout the U.S. are taken care of,” Baxley said.

H-E-B told ABC13 it’s not expecting customers to be affected right now.

“We do not anticipate an impact to our customers at this time. We are monitoring this issue and working closely with our suppliers,” the grocer said.

In a statement Tuesday, the union president wrote, “We are prepared to fight as long as necessary, to stay out on strike for whatever period of time it takes, to get the wages and protections against automation our ILA members deserve.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. Maritime Alliance, or USMX, wrote in its own statement that it has increased its offer to ILA, saying, “We are hopeful that this could allow us to fully resume collective bargaining around the other outstanding issues — in an effort to reach an agreement.”

Emmett told ABC13 that each day this goes on could cost the U.S. economy $5 billion a day.

2024 Texas Election Guide: How to register to vote and make your voice heard

ABC13 Houston
-
0
2024 Texas Election Guide: How to register to vote and make your voice heard

At ABC13 Houston, we believe our democracy works best when everyone participates.

This year, Texas voters will cast ballots for our next president and vice president, U.S. Senator, congressional and state representatives, and decide on multiple judicial races.

Your last day to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 7, 2024.
Check your Texas voter registration | Register to vote (print, sign and mail)
Find your polling place

Texas does not offer online voter registration, but you can visit VoteTexas.gov to fill out, print, sign and mail your application. To be eligible to vote in the November general election, your registration form must be received or postmarked by the Oct. 7 deadline.

You can also register to vote in person at your local Voter Registrar’s office.

Even if you’ve voted before, you should still double-check your registration.

More than a million Texans have been removed from voter rolls since 2021, and the League of Women Voters told ABC13 that some voters have been removed if they didn’t register in the last two federal elections.

Early voting will begin Monday, Oct. 21 and run through Friday, Nov. 1.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5.

How to vote by mail in Texas

Voting by mail in Texas is limited to voters who are:

  • Ages 65 and older
  • Sick or disabled
  • Expected to give birth within three weeks of Election Day
  • Out of the county on Election Day and during the early voting period
  • Confined in jail, but otherwise eligible
  • Civilly committed under Chapter 841 of the Texas Health and Safety Code

The last day to register to vote by mail in Texas is Friday, Oct. 25.

Click here to download an application to vote by mail.

What you can (and can’t) bring to the polls

All voters must present one of the following forms of photo ID:

  • Texas driver license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
  • Texas personal identification card issued by DPS
  • Texas handgun license issued by DPS
  • United States military identification card containing the person’s photograph
  • United States citizenship certificate containing the person’s photograph
  • United States passport (book or card)

You can still vote if you do not possess or cannot reasonably obtain one of these photo IDs. You will need to fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration at the polls and show a copy or original of one of the following approved IDs:

  • Certified Domestic Birth Certificate or Court Admissible Birth Document
  • Current utility bill
  • Bank statement
  • Government check
  • Paycheck
  • Government document with your name and an address, including your voter registration certificate

If you need assistance, voters may request help by any person other than the voter’s employer, an agent of their employer, or an officer or agent of a labor union to which the voter belongs.

You are not permitted to use a wireless communications device or any device which records audio, images or video within 100 feet of a voting station. This includes smartphones, digital cameras or sound recorders. Election judges are authorized to require anyone to turn off or deactivate any device.

While you may be excited to vote for a particular candidate, you should not wear any campaign t-shirts, buttons, hats or other accessories to the polls. This is considered electioneering, which is not permitted within 100 feet of the voting stations.

What’s on my ballot?

For a glance at what you’ll see at the top of your ballot, click here (PDF).

For down ballot races, see your county election authority’s website for details:

Harris Co.
Fort Bend Co.
Montgomery Co.
Galveston Co.
Chambers Co.
Liberty Co.
Waller Co.
Austin Co.
Brazoria Co.
Calhoun Co.
Colorado Co.
Grimes Co.
Jackson Co.
Matagorda Co.
Polk Co.
San Jacinto Co.
Trinity Co.
Walker Co.
Washington Co.
Wharton Co.

Jimmy Carter turns 100: White House to honor former president with ‘Happy Birthday’ display

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Jimmy Carter turns 100: White House to honor former president with ‘Happy Birthday’ display

In honor of former President Jimmy Carter‘s 100th birthday, the North Lawn of the White House will feature a display that includes the number “100” with the message “Happy Birthday President Carter,” according to the first lady’s office.

The display will be installed the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 1, and remain on the North Lawn through the end of the day.

Carter, who entered home hospice care in February 2023, became on Tuesday the first former U.S. president to live to be 100. The 39th president, who held office from 1977 to 1981, is the longest-lived former chief executive in U.S. history.

An estimated crowd of 35,000 people gather for a noontime speech by Presidential candidate Jimmy Carter in downtown Philadelphia, Oct. 29, 1976.
An estimated crowd of 35,000 people gather for a noontime speech by Presidential candidate Jimmy Carter in downtown Philadelphia, Oct. 29, 1976.AP Photo, File

President Joe Biden wished Carter a happy birthday in a new video from the White House.

“On behalf of the entire Biden family and the American people, happy 100th birthday,” Biden said. “Mr. President, you’ve always been a moral force for a nation in the world.”

RELATED | Jimmy Carter at 100: A century of changes for a president, the US and the world since 1924

Biden said that he admires Carter “so darn much” and said that Carter has been “a good friend.”

“Your hopeful vision of our country, your commitment to a better world, and your unwavering belief in the power of human goodness continues to be a guiding light for all of us,” Biden said.

Biden praised Carter as one of “the most influential statesmen in our history” and praised the successes of the Carter Center.

“The moral clarity you showed throughout your career showed through again. And your commitment through the Carter Center and the Habitat for Humanity, you’re solving conflicts, advancing democracy, preventing disease, so much more. It’s transforming the lives of people, not only at home, but around the world,” Biden said.

RELATED | Former President Jimmy Carter turns 100: What to know about his kids, grandkids

Biden also talked about how this is a bittersweet birthday for Carter, as this is the first birthday he has since the death of his wife Rosalynn Carter. Rosalynn Carter died in November 2023 at the age of 96.

“We know this is the first birthday without Rosalynn. It’s bittersweet, but we also know she’s always with you. She’s in your heart. She’ll never go away, she may be gone, but she’s always going to be with you,” Biden said.

“Jill and I send to you and your incredible family our love and God continue to bless you, Mr. President,” Biden said. “You’ve been a good friend.”

Justin Verlander not included on Astros’ Wild Card roster

ABC13 Houston
-
0
Justin Verlander not included on Astros’ Wild Card roster

The Houston Astros have released their 26-man roster ahead of the wild card Series, and Justin Verlander’s name is not on it.

Verlander has been on the injured list twice this season, and so far, his performances haven’t measured up to that of a three-time Cy Young Award-winner, posting an 8.10 ERA through 33 1/3 innings across his past seven starts.

But this doesn’t mean that Verlander can’t make a return. Players on the 40-man roster or 60-day injured list as of 11:59 p.m. ET on Aug. 31 are eligible to make postseason rosters, which are submitted ahead of each series. Verlander last pitched on Saturday, Sept. 28, and with five days of rest, would be ready to pitch by Wednesday if the Astros went to three games with the Detroit Tigers.

Verlander has extensive postseason history, including appearances with the Tigers when they last made the playoffs in 2014. He’s appeared in 38 postseason games, holding a 3.58 ERA across 226 innings dating back to 2006. He’s appeared in 22 postseason games for the Astros, recording a 3.74 ERA across 127 2/3 innings, including an American League Championship Series MVP performance during the Astros’ first title run in 2017.

It’s certainly a surprise to see Verlander’s name left off the roster, especially after his quality start in Cleveland showed some promise. But after giving up six earned runs through 4 2/3 innings against the Los Angeles Angels on Sept. 20, the ace had made his peace with the possibility.

“It’s not my decision, but I was away for two months, and these guys were pitching fantastic,” Verlander said after the game. “You’ve seen a bunch of guys really come into their own and like I said— I see the calendar. That’s why I had to come back and try to find myself. There’s only one way to be successful in this game and as a pitcher, and that’s to pitch against the best talent in the world. Sitting there trying to give myself time wasn’t possible. I needed to figure out where I was at. It’s been hard. It’s been a tough lesson.”

Astros’ Wild Card Roster:
Pitchers:

Bryan Abreu

Spencer Arrighetti

Hunter Brown

Yusei Kikuchi

Bryan King

Héctor Neris

Josh Hader

Ryan Pressly

Framber Valdez

Kaleb Ort

Caleb Ferguson

Ronel Blanco

Catchers

Victor Caratini

Yainer Diaz

César Salazar

Infielders

Jose Altuve

Alex Bregman

Zach Dezenzo

Jeremy Peña

Jon Singleton

Outfielders

Yordan Alvarez

Mauricio Dubón

Jason Heyward

Chas McCormick

Jake Meyers

Kyle Tucker

Reflecting on Famous Lives Lost to Suicide: A Call for Awareness as Suicide Prevention Month Closes

Indira Zaldivar
-
0
Reflecting on Famous Lives Lost to Suicide: A Call for Awareness as Suicide Prevention Month Closes

By Indira Zaldivar & Edward Saenz

As September, recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, draws to a close, it’s crucial to remember those who have tragically succumbed to the weight of mental illness. Suicide affects individuals from all walks of life, including those whose fame and success we often equate with happiness. By reflecting on the lives of famous people lost to suicide, we can honor their memory while bringing attention to the importance of mental health awareness and prevention.

Kurt Cobain (1967–1994)

Kurt Cobain, the lead singer of the grunge band Nirvana, was a defining voice of a generation. His music, particularly the album Nevermind, left an indelible mark on the rock landscape. Yet, Cobain battled depression, addiction, and the pressures of fame. In 1994, at the age of 27, Cobain died by suicide, becoming part of the infamous “27 Club” and igniting discussions about mental health struggles in the music industry.

Robin Williams (1951–2014)

Robin Williams, a beloved actor and comedian, brought joy and laughter to millions through his iconic performances in films like Mrs. Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting. Despite his comedic persona, Williams struggled privately with depression and was later diagnosed with Lewy body dementia. His death by suicide in 2014 shocked the world, underscoring how silent and persistent mental illness can be.

Chester Bennington (1976–2017)

As the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, Chester Bennington was known for his raw and emotional performances. Songs like Numb and Crawling reflected his own battles with depression, addiction, and trauma. Bennington’s death by suicide in 2017 devastated fans and his family, particularly as it occurred two months after the suicide of his close friend Chris Cornell, highlighting how deeply grief and mental health are intertwined.

Kate Spade (1962–2018)

Fashion designer Kate Spade built a successful brand known for its colorful and playful designs. Her handbags became a symbol of fun and sophistication for women around the world. However, behind her bright designs lay a personal struggle with depression. Spade’s death by suicide in 2018 shocked the fashion world and emphasized that success and personal pain often coexist.

Avicii (1989–2018)

Swedish DJ and music producer Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was a trailblazer in the electronic dance music scene. His hits like Wake Me Up and Levels propelled him to international fame. However, the pressures of the industry and his mental health struggles became overwhelming. Avicii retired from touring in 2016 due to health issues, including anxiety and depression. In 2018, he died by suicide at the age of 28, leaving behind a legacy of music that continues to inspire.

Recognizing the Signs of Suicide

While the lives of these famous individuals were unique, they shared common warning signs of suicide that can help us recognize when someone we love might be struggling:

  1. Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed.
  2. Giving away personal possessions or saying goodbye as if preparing for something final.
  3. Expressing feelings of hopelessness or being a burden to others.
  4. Sudden mood changes, including unexpected calmness after a period of depression.

These signs aren’t always obvious, and not everyone exhibits them, but recognizing even subtle shifts can be critical.

Factors Contributing to Suicide Globally

Suicide is a global issue that transcends borders, cultures, and demographics. Various factors contribute to this crisis:

  • Mental illness, particularly depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, is one of the leading causes of suicide.
  • Substance abuse, often tied to depression or trauma, increases the risk of suicide.
  • Marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, face higher rates of suicide due to discrimination, social isolation, and lack of access to mental health care.
  • Economic hardship, unemployment, or financial instability can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness.
  • Geography plays a role as well. Those living in rural or isolated areas often face limited access to mental health resources, leading to higher suicide rates.
  • Gender differences are notable: men, particularly middle-aged men, have the highest suicide rates globally, often due to societal pressures and reluctance to seek help.

Mental Health Awareness and Prevention

The stories of these famous individuals demonstrate that mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of fame, fortune, or outward success. Their lives and deaths remind us of the importance of checking in on those around us, supporting mental health initiatives, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and other global resources offer support to those in crisis and their loved ones.

As we close out Suicide Prevention Month, let’s honor the memory of those we’ve lost by advocating for mental health awareness year-round. Recognizing the signs, offering support, and fostering open conversations can save lives. Let us continue to work toward a world where no one feels like they have to face their struggles alone.

Resources
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

1...909192...706Page 91 of 706

Houston’s premier Hispanic news network, dedicated to keeping you informed with the latest updates on local and national breaking news, community events, entertainment, chisme, and much more. We strive to be your trusted source for engaging and timely content that connects with our vibrant community and celebrates the culture and stories that matter most to you.

Contact us: contact@queondamagazine.com

© Copyright - Que Onda Magazine 2024